mGBA: first launch, controls, and saves

Install and open one game

Choose the current desktop release for your operating system from the official mGBA downloads page. On Windows, pick the installer or portable archive; use the release rather than a development build for a first setup.

Keep your own game backup in a regular writable folder, such as a games directory in Documents, then open it in mGBA. Test one title before organizing a large library. mGBA also supports Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, but begin with a GBA title if that is your main use.

Set controls and verify saving

Connect your controller before opening the game. Check mGBA’s input settings, map the buttons you need, and confirm movement and the A/B buttons in the game itself. If you use a keyboard, test the assigned keys before changing video or audio options.

Use the game’s own save feature, close mGBA, reopen the same game, and check that the save loads. This tests the ordinary cartridge save rather than relying only on a save state. Keep a backup of important save files when moving your library.

If something goes wrong

If a Windows game does not retain saves, move the game files out of Program Files or another protected location. The project’s FAQ specifically calls out write-protected folders as a cause. If a game opens to a black screen, the FAQ suggests trying a different display driver, including Software rendering.